Our Story
Lakemary is a story of COMPASSION, supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental differences for more than five decades.
In 1969, Lakemary’s story humbly began when our founders, the Ursuline Sisters of Paola, shared a calling and passion for supporting children with special needs. They generously donated 32 acres of land and Mother M. Charles McGrath led the charge to get funding to build the school. Over the next few decades, Lakemary became an accredited school and expanded services for the children.
As the children aged and eventually graduated from Lakemary School, it seemed natural and vital to add services for adults. The adult program launched in 1982 to include group homes, day services and vocational training. Over the next few years, Lakemary became accredited by The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
We have supported thousands of people with special needs and their families for over fifty years. Today, we continue to celebrate our history and our compassionate services, as we empower those we support to achieve their individual potential.
Our Board of Directors, Executive Team and Staff are proud of our history of accomplishments as we continue to focus on leading Lakemary into the future.
lakemary center history
Lakemary Founded
Initial construction of the Lakemary campus was completed and turned over to the Ursuline Sisters of Paola, who operated the facility.
March 21, 1970 Lakemary officially opened.
Adult Services Program launches. The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accredited the Lakemary Adult Service Program.
Kansas Department of Education accredited Lakemary School as both a public and private so that children with behavior disorders could be supported. The Children’s program was approved by the state as a provider of dual-diagnosis services. Launched Supported Family Living, now known as Specialized Foster Care.
Children’s Services became CARF-accredited and licensed as a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility. New Lakemary Adult Day Services opened in Paola. Lakemary Ranch officially opened with the raising of a beautiful red barn. The Bob Dole Family Center was dedicated in 2014. Kirk Davis became the 4th President /CEO in Lakemary’s history.
Today, Lakemary continues to innovate and grow in order to provide the highest quality of care to the children and adults we support. Our national reach is notably strong with children from 10 different states residing in our PRTF program.
In 2019, Lakemary celebrated its 50th Anniversary by hosting an open house at the Paola main campus. Over 350 guests attended, and it was a wonderful opportunity for the community to see our growth over the years and learn more about the important work we do.
Our Executive Team and Board of Directors are proud of the accomplishments we have achieved over the past 50 years, and they are focused on strategically leading Lakemary into the next half century.